By Caleb MorganUpdated November 2026
If you want to brew small batches of mead, kombucha, cider or beer without committing to a full 5 gallon setup, a 2 gallon fermenter glass vessel is one of the most practical tools you can own. This list compares six wide-mouth glass fermentation jars sold on Amazon US. Our selection criteria were capacity accuracy, mouth size, lid and airlock design, glass build quality, the number of included accessories, and the patterns owners tend to report about leaks, cleaning and handling. We did not test these jars ourselves; the picks reflect product specifications and common owner feedback.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallWine Making Supplies with 2 Airlocks, Airtight Screw Lid, MeasurementView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for small kitchens2 Pack Square Wide Mouth Mason Jar, Stainless Steel Handle, Non-slip BView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest budget pick4.3" Opening, BPA-Free, Food Grade, Pickle jars with 2 Airtight Lids,View on Amazon - 4
Best for kimchi and pickles1.5 Gal, 4.3" Wide Mouth, 2pc, Airtight Lid & 3 Airlocks, ML/OZ ScaleView on Amazon - 5
Best for leak-proof storageWide Mouth Mason Jar, 100% Leak-proof, with Handles & Bases, for MeadView on Amazon - 6
Best for starters and experimentsWide Mouth, Airtight Lids, Scale Mark, Heavy-Duty Glass Jars for KombuView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Before the individual reviews, here is a side-by-side view. Note that some listings are marketed as “1.5 gallon” or “1 gallon” rather than 2 gallon. Check the stated capacity against your batch size before buying.
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Wine Making Supplies 2 Gallon Fermentation Jar (7600ML) | Overall small-batch use | Two airlocks and measurement marks |
| 2 Pack Square Wide Mouth Mason Jar | Small kitchens | Square shape with stainless steel handle |
| 2PCS 1.5 Gallon Large Fermentation Jars | Budget-minded brewers | Two jars with three airlocks |
| 1.5 Gal 4.3″ Wide Mouth Pickle Jar (5700 ML) | Kimchi, pickles and kombucha | Wide 4.3-inch opening |
| Wide Mouth Mason Jar with Handles and Bases (2 Pack) | Leak-resistant storage | Handles and non-slip bases |
| Wide Mouth Glass Jar 1 Gallon (2 Pack) | Starters and test batches | Heavy-duty glass with three airlocks |
Wine Making Supplies with 2 Airlocks, Airtight Screw Lid, Measurement Marks, Fermenting jars for Mead, Kombucha, Cider, Beer 2 Gallon Fermentation Jar with Airlocks, Wide Mouth Glass Jar (7600ML)
Wine Making Supplies with 2 Airlocks, Airtight Screw Lid, Measurement Marks, Fermenting jars for Mead, Kombucha, Cider, Beer 2 Gallon Fermentation Jar with Airlocks, Wide Mouth Glass Jar (7600ML)
Best for: Overall small-batch brewing across mead, kombucha, cider and beer.
This is the most complete package in the lineup for someone who wants one jar that handles several fermentation types. Its listing names a 2 gallon capacity, which matches the search intent most closely.
Key specs:
- Listed capacity: 2 gallons (7600 ML)
- Wide-mouth glass body
- Two airlocks and an airtight screw lid included
- Measurement marks on the glass
Pros:
- Includes two airlocks, so a spare is on hand
- Measurement marks help with volume checks
- Wide mouth makes filling and cleaning easier
Cons:
- Glass is heavy when full, so lifting needs care
- Airlock fit should be checked before each batch
Bottom line: A strong first choice for brewers who want a 2 gallon glass vessel that covers most small-batch styles.
2 Pack Square Wide Mouth Mason Jar, Stainless Steel Handle, Non-slip Base, Kimchi Containers for Mead Making, Kombucha Large Fermentation Jars with Airlock, 2 Gallon Glass Jar with Lid
2 Pack Square Wide Mouth Mason Jar, Stainless Steel Handle, Non-slip Base, Kimchi Containers for Mead Making, Kombucha Large Fermentation Jars with Airlock, 2 Gallon Glass Jar with Lid
Best for: Small kitchens where counter space is limited.
The square body uses corner space better than a round jar, and the handle and non-slip base make it easier to move a full vessel.
Key specs:
- Listed capacity: 2 gallons
- Square wide-mouth glass body
- Stainless steel handle and non-slip base
- Lid with airlock included
Pros:
- Square shape stores more neatly than round jars
- Handle helps when carrying a full jar
- Non-slip base reduces sliding on counters
Cons:
- Square corners can be harder to scrub thoroughly
- Stainless handle adds some weight
Bottom line: Best for brewers in apartments or compact kitchens who want a stable, easy-to-move 2 gallon glass jar.
2PCS 1.5 Gallon Large Fermentation Jars, 4.3″ Opening, BPA-Free, Food Grade, Pickle jars with 2 Airtight Lids, 3 Airlocks and Measurement Marks, Leakproof Seal, Wide Mouth Glass Mason Jar
4.3" Opening, BPA-Free, Food Grade, Pickle jars with 2 Airtight Lids, 3 Airlocks and Measurement Marks, Leakproof Seal, 2PCS 1.5 Gallon Large Fermentation Jars, Wide Mouth Glass Mason Jar
Best for: Budget-minded brewers who want two jars for parallel batches.
Two jars and three airlocks give you flexibility, especially if you want to run a kombucha batch and a mead batch at the same time.
Key specs:
- Listed capacity: 1.5 gallons per jar
- 4.3-inch wide opening
- BPA-free, food-grade labeling
- Two airtight lids and three airlocks
Pros:
- Two jars in one set
- Three airlocks included
- Wide opening suits fruit and vegetable ferments
Cons:
- Listed capacity is 1.5 gallons, a little under a full 2 gallon batch
- Owners sometimes report that airlocks need a firm press to seat
Bottom line: A practical choice for brewers who value quantity and flexibility over exact 2 gallon capacity.
1.5 Gal, 4.3″ Wide Mouth, 2pc, Airtight Lid & 3 Airlocks, ML/OZ Scale Line, Food Grade, BPA Free, Dishwasher Safe, 5700 ML Glass Fermentation Jar Large Pickle Jar Kimchi Containers for Kumbucha Mead
1.5 Gal, 4.3" Wide Mouth, 2pc, Airtight Lid & 3 Airlocks, ML/OZ Scale Line, Food Grade, BPA Free, Dishwasher Safe, 5700 ML Glass Fermentation Jar Large Pickle Jar Kimchi Containers for Kumbucha Mead
Best for: Kimchi, pickles and kombucha.
The wide 4.3-inch mouth and ML/OZ scale line make this a comfortable jar for packing vegetables and checking volumes during a ferment.
Key specs:
- Listed capacity: 1.5 gallons (5700 ML)
- 4.3-inch wide mouth
- ML and OZ scale line
- Dishwasher-safe, BPA-free labeling
Pros:
- Wide mouth suits packing produce
- Dual-unit scale aids measuring
- Dishwasher-safe for easier cleanup
Cons:
- Capacity is slightly under 2 gallons
- Dishwasher heat can affect gaskets over time, according to some owner reports
Bottom line: A good pick if your fermentation includes a lot of vegetables alongside your brewing.
Wide Mouth Mason Jar, 100% Leak-proof, with Handles & Bases, for Mead Making, Brewing, Fermentating, Pickling, Kimchi 1.5 Gallon Glass Fermentation Jars with Lids & Airlocks, 2 Pack
Wide Mouth Mason Jar, 100% Leak-proof, with Handles & Bases, for Mead Making, Brewing, Fermentating, Pickling, Kimchi 1.5 Gallon Glass Fermentation Jars with Lids & Airlocks, 2 Pack
Best for: Leak-resistant storage during long ferments.
The listing emphasizes a leak-proof seal and includes handles and bases, which helps with moving jars in and out of a closet or fermentation chamber.
Key specs:
- Listed capacity: 1.5 gallons
- Wide-mouth glass with handles and non-slip bases
- Lids and airlocks included
- Two-pack
Pros:
- Handles and bases make handling easier
- Listed as leak-proof for long ferments
- Two jars for parallel batches
Cons:
- Listed capacity is below 2 gallons
- Owners should test the seal before adding a full batch
Bottom line: Suits brewers who want a secure seal and easy handling in a two-jar set.
Wide Mouth, Airtight Lids, Scale Mark, Heavy-Duty Glass Jars for Kombucha, Mead Making, Sauerkraut, Sourdough Starter, Pickle 1 Gallon Fermentation Jar with 3 Airlocks & 2 Screw Lids, 2 Pack
Wide Mouth, Airtight Lids, Scale Mark, Heavy-Duty Glass Jars for Kombucha, Mead Making, Sauerkraut, Sourdough Starter, Pickle 1 Gallon Fermentation Jar with 3 Airlocks & 2 Screw Lids, 2 Pack
Best for: Starters, test batches and smaller experiments.
This listing is a 1 gallon jar rather than a 2 gallon one, so it is best treated as a trial vessel or a starter container for brewers moving up from smaller setups.
Key specs:
- Listed capacity: 1 gallon
- Wide mouth with scale marks
- Heavy-duty glass
- Three airlocks and two screw lids
Pros:
- Lower volume is easier to handle
- Three airlocks included
- Good for sourdough starters and test recipes
Cons:
- Capacity too small for full 2 gallon batches
- Less useful if you plan to brew at 2 gallon volume
Bottom line: A useful companion jar rather than a main 2 gallon fermenter.
If you are also weighing plastic options, the comparison in Plastic vs Glass Fermenter: Which Is Better for Your Brews? covers the trade-offs in more depth. For larger batches, 6 Best 5 Gallon Glass Fermenters for Homebrewers: Buyer's Guide is a useful next step.
Buying Guide
Capacity and true working volume
Listed capacity is the total container volume, not the volume you should fill. Leave headroom for foam, especially with kombucha, cider and actively fermenting beer. A 2 gallon jar is comfortably filled to roughly 1.5 to 1.75 gallons of liquid, depending on the ferment.
Good picks for this: Wine Making Supplies 2 Gallon Fermentation Jar, 2 Pack Square Wide Mouth Mason Jar
Mouth size and access
A wider mouth makes it easier to add ingredients, scrub the interior and insert a hand or brush. Listings with a 4.3-inch opening are noticeably easier to clean than narrow-neck carboys.
Good picks for this: 1.5 Gal Wide Mouth Pickle Jar, 2PCS 1.5 Gallon Large Fermentation Jars
Lid and airlock design
Check whether the lid is airtight and whether it accepts a standard three-piece airlock. Airlocks need a clean, tight fit. Keep a spare on hand, since they are the part most likely to be lost or cracked.
Good picks for this: Wine Making Supplies 2 Gallon Fermentation Jar, Wide Mouth Mason Jar with Handles and Bases
Glass thickness and build
Heavy-duty glass resists cracking better during temperature swings and when moving full jars. Thin glass is more likely to chip at the rim, which can cause a seal failure.
Good picks for this: Wide Mouth Glass Jar 1 Gallon, Wide Mouth Mason Jar with Handles and Bases
Handles, bases and stability
A full 2 gallon glass jar can weigh well over 15 pounds. Handles and non-slip bases reduce the chance of dropping the vessel, which matters more than most beginners expect.
Good picks for this: 2 Pack Square Wide Mouth Mason Jar, Wide Mouth Mason Jar with Handles and Bases
Measurement marks
Scale lines printed or molded on the glass let you estimate volume without a separate measuring container. They are approximate, so verify with a measuring cup when accuracy matters for recipes.
Good picks for this: Wine Making Supplies 2 Gallon Fermentation Jar, 1.5 Gal Wide Mouth Pickle Jar
Cleaning and sanitizing
Glass is inert and easy to sanitize, but the mouth and lid threads are where residue collects. Choose a jar whose mouth you can reach with a brush, and sanitize all parts before each batch. Most glass jars are listed as dishwasher-safe, though owners often recommend hand-washing gaskets.
Good picks for this: 1.5 Gal Wide Mouth Pickle Jar, 2 Pack Square Wide Mouth Mason Jar
FAQ
Is a 2 gallon glass fermenter big enough for a full batch of beer?
Usually not. Most homebrew recipes are sized for 5 gallons, so a 2 gallon glass vessel suits small test batches, mead, kombucha or cider. Scale recipes down accordingly.
Can glass fermenters be used for beer?
Yes, glass is non-reactive and easy to inspect. Make sure the lid and airlock are rated for pressure changes during active fermentation, and avoid sealing a jar that is not designed for pressure.
Do I need an airlock?
For most ferments, yes. An airlock lets carbon dioxide escape while keeping oxygen and contaminants out. Some kimchi and sauerkraut recipes use a weight and loose lid instead.
How do I avoid glass breaking during fermentation?
Avoid sudden temperature changes, do not set a hot jar on a cold surface, and never seal a jar tightly without a pressure-relief airlock during active fermentation.
How much headroom should I leave?
Fill to no more than about three-quarters of the listed capacity for vigorous ferments. Leave more room for kombucha and cider, which can foam.
Can I use these jars for kombucha and sourdough starters?
Yes. Wide-mouth glass jars are widely used for kombucha SCOBYs and sourdough starters, provided the lid allows a breathable cover such as cloth or a loose lid.
Conclusion
For a dedicated 2 gallon glass fermenter, the Wine Making Supplies 2 Gallon Fermentation Jar stands out for listed capacity and accessories. Brewers in small kitchens may prefer the square 2 Pack Square Wide Mouth Mason Jar. Budget-minded buyers can consider the two-jar 1.5 gallon sets, while the wide-mouth 1.5 gallon options suit kimchi and pickles. The 1 gallon listing is most useful as a starter or test vessel. Always confirm capacity, airlock fit and seal before a full batch, and consult the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific use.
Sources
- Food contact materials, glass safety and guidance on food-grade containers (fda.gov)
- Food safety basics for home fermentation and preventing contamination (cdc.gov)
- Home food preservation and safe handling of fermented vegetables (usda.gov)
Related reading
About Caleb Morgan
Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our home brewing guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
